Jiffy Chow Mein
A flavorful and hearty beef chow mein with crisp celery, bean sprouts, and savory soy sauce, perfect for a quick family dinner or Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain off excess fat.
- Add sliced onion, chopped celery, and 1 cup water to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the can of bean sprouts.
- Mix soy sauce, sugar, water, and cornstarch in a bowl, then add to the meat mixture.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over cooked Chinese noodles or rice, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or ginger into the beef mixture while browning. If you don't have bean sprouts, shredded cabbage or snow peas can serve as excellent substitutes. To reduce the sodium content, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. This dish can also be easily adapted to include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Jiffy Chow Mein pairs beautifully with cooked Chinese noodles or rice. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or snow peas. You can also top it with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jiffy Chow Mein contains roughly 361 calories, with 9g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1792mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives to ground beef. They will result in a lighter dish, but be sure to season them well to maintain flavor. Keep an eye on cooking times, as leaner meats may require less time in the skillet.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously while adding to ensure it blends well and retains a smooth texture. Adjust the seasoning if necessary to maintain flavor balance.
Can this dish be frozen for later use?
Yes, Jiffy Chow Mein can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).